Megson eases Gardner concerns

21 April 2009 01:03

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Bolton manager Gary Megson has eased fears over the seriousness of Ricardo Gardner's injury after revealing he could be fit to face Aston Villa.
Villa travel to the Reebok Stadium on Saturday and the Trotters boss is hoping that the Jamaica international is ready to retain his place.
The 30-year-old limped off after only 12 minutes of the 1-0 defeat at Portsmouth last weekend with a hamstring injury, raising concerns that he could be ruled out for the remainder of the season.
Losing the winger at such a crucial time of the season, with Wanderers still not mathematically safe from the drop, would have been a cruel blow considering the form he has been in this season.
But Megson is eyeing a swift return, telling the club's official website:
"We'll see for this Saturday but it might come a little too quickly.
"He has been terrific, he really has been top drawer. He's been moved into the middle of the park and has done really well.
"He has had his best goalscoring season and his qualities on the ball and his pace have been a big plus for us.
"We'll be disappointed if he isn't available for Saturday."
Meanwhile the former West Brom boss also had good news about injured pair Mark Davies and Danny Shittu.
Davies limped out of the home defeat to Fulham more than a month again and has not played since, while Shittu was forced off in the 4-3 defeat to Chelsea with a calf strain.
"Mark Davies is getting closer, as is Danny Shittu, who should be okay," he added.